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Climate change

Decarbonizing The Apex: A Major Step Forward in Reducing Carbon Emissions

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

As part of West Suffolk Council's efforts to make local buildings more energy efficient and environmentally friendly, work is set to begin in July on a major project to reduce carbon emissions at The Apex in Bury St Edmunds. The venue, a cultural hub offering live music, exhibitions, and community events, will undergo a series of improvements, including the replacement of gas boilers with air source heat pumps, LED lighting upgrades, and the removal of gas systems replaced with electrical equipment. These upgrades aim to cut energy use, reduce heating bills, and help tackle climate change.

Key Takeaways:

  • The project will reduce carbon emissions from 127.62 tonnes of CO2 per annum to 71.23 tonnes CO2 per annum, equivalent to taking approximately 12 to 13 petrol cars off the roads.
  • The council's Net Zero Fund provided £1.1 million for the decarbonisation project, while the remaining £1.01 million was funded from West Suffolk Council's Asset Management Plan reserve.
  • The upgrades will include the installation of ground source heat pumps, which provide critical heating and cooling functions to buildings.
  • The project will be completed in three phases, with disruption to events kept to a minimum.
  • The downstairs cafe and lobby seating area will remain open to the public throughout the decarbonisation work.
  • The project is part of West Suffolk Council's strategic goals for sustainable growth and environmental resilience.

Statistics:

  • Total project carbon emissions reduction: 56.39 tonnes of CO2 per annum
  • Energy savings: A reduction in energy use and heating bills
  • Project funding: £1.1 million from the council's Net Zero Fund and £1.01 million from the Asset Management Plan reserve
  • Number of petrol cars equivalent in emissions reduction: 12 to 13
  • Time period for project completion: Three phased project

Sources:

  • West Suffolk Council, UK Government Press Release
  • Climate Emergency UK, Environmental Scorecard (no specific date or publication date mentioned)
  • West Suffolk Council, Cabinet Members Cllr Gerald Kelly and Cllr Ian Shipp's quotes.

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